Young women at highest risk as Lagos, Benue top Nigeria’s HIV infection chart
Lagos and Benue states have emerged as the leading centres of HIV infections in Nigeria, with young women identified as the most vulnerable group, according to a new report.
The latest data, released by the National Data Repository on Wednesday, highlights trends in HIV detection, treatment, and viral suppression across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Despite the concerning infection patterns, the report shows significant progress in awareness and treatment nationwide. It revealed that 95 per cent of people living with HIV are now aware of their status.
Among those diagnosed, another 95 per cent are currently receiving treatment, with over 1.6 million patients on medication across 1,997 health facilities.
Additionally, 95 per cent of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression, indicating strong adherence to therapy and improved health outcomes.
A decade-long analysis of infection trends shows fluctuating figures, with cases rising from 228,014 in 2016 to a peak of 464,355 in 2020.
However, infections have since declined steadily, dropping sharply to 21,389 in 2026 — a 90.8 per cent reduction from the 111,513 cases recorded in 2025.
Other annual figures include 237,756 in 2017; 215,231 in 2018; 27,181 in 2019; 451,402 in 2021; 330,690 in 2022; 238,748 in 2023; and 143,666 in 2024.
The report noted that the most significant decline occurred within the past year, signalling notable progress in the country’s HIV control efforts, even as concerns persist over the heightened risk among young women.
